By Evelyn Witterholt, RCS Reporter. 

Owner of Interstate Roofing and RT3 member Scott Riopelle discusses the changing world of roofing and where new technologies fit in. 

With all the advancements being made in roofing technology, it can be difficult for companies to keep up with the times. The Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) has been working hard for the last few years to find new technology for roofers and help companies understand how to incorporate it into their businesses for maximum success. Scott Riopelle, owner of Interstate Roofing and an RT3 member, touched on this with us on an episode of Coffee Conversations. 

Scott is all about accepting the changing world of technology and he believes that roofing companies can benefit from doing the same. He says that one of the biggest challenges society as a whole has faced is accepting that change is inevitable. When Google was first introduced, many were quick to dismiss it, but now it serves a crucial function to the internet. Regarding roofing, he says that technology is needed for the sales process and companies can benefit from focusing on this in the year and beyond. 

One of the ways Scott’s company has embraced technology is by going paperless for practical and sustainable reasons. “COVID forced us to go paperless quicker, it forced everybody that was fighting it to get on board,” he says. “I didn't realize how tough it really is to go paperless when you have a warehouse full of 100,000 jobs.” Despite the challenge though, Scott and Interstate Roofing are aiming to be completely paperless by the second quarter of this year. 

Another sustainable technology Scott has been getting involved with is solar roofing — a sector of the industry he sees as the future. He’s noticed a trend in solar companies getting into roofing and believes that it’s time for roofing companies to start getting into solar. 

“Solar and roofing have always been apart, they've been pushed apart,” Scott said. “I think this year is really where we have to bring it together because I believe that's the future, that's the technology.”  

Learn more about RT3 in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.rt3thinktank.com. 

Read, Listen or Watch the entire Coffee Conversations to learn more about integrating new roofing technologies into your business.

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter. 

In honor of Women's History Month, we celebrate some women-led businesses in the roofing.

Roofing is an overwhelmingly male occupation. Whether contractor or crew, the majority of workers are typically men. The U.S. Department of Labor considers roofing a male-dominated profession, but that doesn’t mean women in roofing are unicorns. Take Marianne Sumter, owner of Wil-Mar Products, as proof of how women are not only present in the roofing industry, but are essential to its success.  

With a desire to continue her husband’s legacy, Marianne became the owner of Wil-Mar Products, stepping into a leadership role in a male-dominated industry. And she has successfully led the company with strength and expertise. To this day, Marianne continues to provide excellent customer service, meet the demands of the industry and develop lasting relationships with women. 

And there are even more stories of women revolutionizing the roofing industry. Women now fill positions ranging from roofing, marketing and sales to consulting, manufacturing and research. Female professionals are also stepping into leadership roles at roofing manufacturing companies and starting their own roofing companies. Read on as we highlight women leading the roofing industry! 

Ethelmae Humphreys has been a trailblazer for women in roofing since the 1940s. She had just graduated from high school in 1944 and her parents moved to Joplin, Missouri to start TAMKO Building Products. Ethelmae headed to college at the University of Kansas, earning a bachelor's degree in liberal arts. Upon graduation it became clear that her father’s failing health meant he would need assistance running the company, so she came home and helped out, and was named the executive vice president of TAMKO. Together with her husband, she grew the company into one of the largest privately owned roofing manufacturers in the country. After her husband’s death in 1993, she took over as CEO until her son took on the role of president and CEO the following year. 

Associations 

Plenty of roofing associations pride themselves on being women-led or having women in high-ranking positions. The Roofing Alliance, celebrating 25 years as the foundation of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), has appointed Alison LaValley as the new executive director and recently has made Kelly Van Winkle the first female vice president. 

Additionally, Lisa Pate serves as the executive director of the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), Tracey Prociw is the executive director and board secretary of The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) and Suzie Boyd is the current president of the Colorado Roofing Association (CRA). With female leadership, these associations have prospered and grown; these women have paved the path to a better roofing industry.  

Plus, there are plenty of women in roofing who hold leadership positions. Johns Manville is proudly led by a team of women who represent their Roofing Systems Leadership, including: Director of Human Resources Brandi Duncan, Director of Product Management and Marketing Jennifer Ford-Smith, Owner Services Leader Mandy Schweitzer, Director of Commercial Services and SIOP Tesha Kroll and Director of Technology Zebonie Sukle. 

Many women have started their own businesses in the industry too. Art Unlimited is a women-owned business, with the second-generation leadership of Anna Anderson and Elizabeth Chapman taking the company’s digital and marketing expertise to a national stage. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® is women owned and led too! Established in 2002 by Vickie Sharples, the Coffee Shop is “where the industry meets.” Heidi J. Ellsworth became a partner in the company with Vickie in 2015 and today the RCS crew is led by Heidi, who also has her own marketing and consulting business, HJE Consulting.  

RCS COO Karen L. Edwards has helped Heidi grow the website and push boundaries in this male-dominated industry that is slow to change. She is also the Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3)’s communications and engagement leader and owns her own marketing and sales company, Casimir Group. Studies show that women who support other women are more successful. Research conducted by Harvard Business Review found that having a network of close female contacts helps females land executive positions.  

According to Forbes, these inner circles provide necessary support and recommendations when their peers are faced with challenges and cultural bias, especially in male-dominated industries like roofing. As the president of RoofersCoffeeShop, Heidi has exceled in empowering other women to be successful within the roofing industry, fostering employees at all levels within the company to build a strong network that is both diverse and supportive of all people, brining then into the trades for an opportunity of a great career. 

Furthermore, organizations like National Women in Roofing, of which Heidi is a founder, are providing opportunities and support for women in the roofing industry. Today, with the efforts of many in the roofing industry, NWIR has created a new understanding, interest and demand for diversity. Women are more prevalent than ever in the field and at trade shows, meetings and board meetings. Through mentoring, education and networking, women have more support than ever to find a rewarding career in this industry.   

There is more than enough space on the roof for women in this industry. With so many female role models and female-led roofing initiatives, the future of roofing looks female! 

Stay up to date with the latest roofing industry news when you sign up for the RCS Week in Roofing e-news.

By Lauren White, RCS Editor. 

Tesla solar tile systems, model-based estimating and VR headsets had these industry professionals and thought leaders oohing and aahing. 

While in New Orleans for the 2022 International Roofing Expo (IRE), members of the Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) gathered to learn how members are utilizing technology to advance the industry and help their companies innovate.  Discussions included Tesla solar tile systems and model-based estimating, and ended with these industry professionals experimenting with VR headsets to what the future of roofing holds. 

Tesla solar roof tiles 

Ken Kelly, CEO and owner of Kelly Roofing, shared the inside scoop of his work with the Tesla solar tile system.  While version 3 of the tiles is out now, Kelly Roofing is working directly with Tesla to create version 4.  After extensive training, Kelly’s crews are installing Tesla solar systems on residential roofs.  These systems are unique in that they’re not a solar system that’s installed over a pre-existing tile or asphalt roof, but instead they’re individual solar shingles.  Some panels are power generating, but not all, and you can’t tell the difference between the two.  Their sleek design and appearance are enough to enhance the curb appeal of anyone’s home.  

These tiles are designed to pick up any wavelength of light whether that’s moonlight, fluorescent light or sunlight. Another unique feature is that snow melts quickly off of Tesla roofs because of the amount of heat it generates, which means there’s less likelihood of ice dams.  Further, these tiles are self-cleaning.  It’s important that leaves, pollen and sea spray from coastal areas don’t cover the panels and inhibit power generation, so all it takes is a little rain to clean the roof.  

What really makes Tesla tiles different is the use of peel and stick direct to the deck underlayment.  Tesla tiles go through more rigid testing due to the electric components sitting directly on the roof deck as opposed to lifted on a stanchion.  They also have a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating.  

While walking on any roof is dangerous, Tesla roofs are especially slippery.  Ken provided us with an insider tip, sharing that Skechers are the best shoes for contractors to wear when walking on the roof due to their gripping abilities! 

Model-based estimating 

Adam Oaks, CEO, and James Lee, business analyst, of Estimating Edge shared about their recent acquisition by Foundation Software and what it means for the advancement of technology in the industry.  Both companies have been around for 30 years and share similar company cultures, which made the integration seamless.  

Their newest program, Vector, hadn’t launched yet when they provided us with a demonstration, but contractors were already purchasing it!  This model-based estimating automates the takeoff process, allowing roofing contractors to spend more time estimating and less time measuring.  Some of the special features include adding notes to communicate directly with the team, and being able to log any activity throughout the process to keep everyone in the loop.  The diagrams and shapes provided in the program are the same ones that roofing contractors currently use, meaning there’s less of a learning curve for new users.   

Virtual reality headsets 

Prior to the meetup, John Kiesel, president of Division 7 Roofing and Imagine Technologies, sent four RT3 members Oculus VR headsets.  They also designed individual rooms for these members – RT3, RoofersCoffeeShop®, Imagine Technologies and Rackley Roofing.  These rooms demonstrated the ways virtual reality can be utilized by companies with various specialties, such as safety, service and sales and marketing.  

Members were encouraged to try the Oculus headsets and experience the VR rooms for themselves, exploring small building models, playing videos and “flying” on top of the building’s roof to check for cracks, flashings and other issues.  The room was filled with members excitedly saying “Woah!” “Look at that!” and “This is so cool!”  We discussed the value of this technology for training purposes, presentations when working remotely and inspecting the condition of the building and roof. 

These RT3 meetups provide thought leaders a platform to not only test out the latest and greatest technologies, but to also share how resources like these can be embraced in the industry and provide contractors with practical solutions. 

Learn more about RT3 in their RoofersCoffeeShop Directory or visit rt3thinktank.com. 

By Evelyn Witterholt, RCS Reporter. 

CEO of Art Unlimited and RT3 member Anna Anderson discusses the latest technological advancements in the roofing industry. 

The Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) is constantly informing roofing contractors of new technology that will help them succeed. Through their exploration of emerging technologies, RT3 is helping the roofing industry grow and become more efficient. Anna Anderson, Scott Riopelle and John Kiesel, all members of RT3, shared their thoughts and insights about embracing new technology and the value it has to the roofing industry with Heidi J. Ellsworth in Season 3, Episode 7 of Coffee Conversations.  

As a member of RT3 and CEO of the digital marketing agency Art Unlimited, Anna Anderson is all about the advancement of technology. One trend she is seeing is the use of robotics in roofing. She says that RT3 is now demoing a robotic technology that can scan inside roofs and attic crawl spaces.  

Anna also says that embracing this new technology doesn’t mean you are pushing away employees. “These are new opportunities to leverage robotics and empower your workforce,” she says. “You're not taking away from it. You're creating a more stable, accurate solution for that workforce that you have.” 

Ways companies can improve their technical know-how is by being mindful of speed. Anna says that it’s one thing to have fast technology, but you can’t only rely on the speed of your website. You also have to respond fast to inquiries and interactions on your social platforms. By focusing on how you can work with your high-speed services, you’ll be in control of your success as a company. 

While all this change might be intimidating to consumers and the workforce, Anna says that humanity is built to adapt to change. Consumers now expect technology such as virtual reality (VR) because they have adapted to it and want to see more of it. And even though the workforce may be hesitant at first to change, Anna said that more and more workers just want to learn how to use these advancements. 

“The Roofing Technology Think Tank is dedicated to finding innovation and taking that innovation and technology and bringing it to the roofing industry,” Anna says. “We're not just looking within the industry, we're saying, ‘What's out there and how do we bring it in?’” 

Learn more about RT3 in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.rt3thinktank.com. 

Read, Listen or Watch the entire Coffee Conversations to gain more insight about integrating technological advancements in your roofing company.

Members of the Roofing Technology Think Tank started the week of the 2022 International Roofing Expo by participating in a meetup where they learned about emerging technologies and how they will affect the roofing industry.

Tesla Solar Roofs

The group began its meetup on Monday, January 31 with several presentations. Ken Kelly, of Naples, Florida-based Kelly Roofing shared exciting updates related to Tesla Solar Roofs as his company nears their 100th installation.

Automating takeoffs

Following Ken’s presentation the topic moved on to the recent acquisition of Estimating Edge by Foundation Software. Adam Oaks, Estimating Edge CEO shared information about the acquisition and what it will mean for the advancement of technology within the roofing industry.

He then proceeded to give a demonstration of their newest program call Vector. The takeoff software automates the takeoff process, allowing users to spend more time on estimating and less on measuring, saving hours or even days.

Virtual reality

Following the presentations, RT3 members were able to experience the power of virtual reality combined with photogrammetry to see how it has the ability to revolutionize the way we perform site inspections and even meet with our customers.

Thanks to RT3 member John Kiesel of Division 7 Roofing and Imagine Technologies Group, members used Oculus VR headsets to enter virtual rooms that focused on different areas in the industry, including safety, sales and marketing and service.

For many members it was their first experience with the VR space and proved to be a fascinating adventure into what the possibilities for the future of roofing could be.

Future workforce panel

On the first day of the IRE, several RT3 members presented a panel titled Casting the Net for Your Future Workforce. In this session, RT3 contractor members shared how they are working with their schools, youth programs and communities to build a pipeline for the future roofing workforce. From multi-organizational apprenticeship programs to working with youth from schools who don’t want to pursue college to getting involved in the community and developing in-house training opportunities, these contractors shared what they are doing, how they got started and tips for success.

It was an exciting week for the RT3 members as they continue their mission to learn about new technologies and share that information with the rest of the industry.

Learn more about RT3 in their RCS directory or visit www.rt3thinktank.com.

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter.  

RT3 member John Kiesel talks about how empowering tech savvy employees to bring technology into your company helps move the industry forward. 

Season 3, Episode 7 of the Coffee Conversations podcast celebrates Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), a group of thought leaders who have come together to bring technology into roofing. Sponsored by ABC Supply, Heidi J. Ellsworth meets with Anna Anderson, Scott Riopelle and John Kiesel to discuss roofing technology and trends for 2022.  

Anna Anderson is the CEO of Art Unlimited and the current President of RT3. She is also on the executive committee of National Women in Roofing. Anna discusses the importance of integrations so that the entire workforce can be empowered to do their job with excellence. “We need technology as a whole within the industry to embrace that and start collaboratively looking at how do we solve it," says Anna.  

The 2020 innovator of the year for Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), Scott Riopelle, speaks to the importance of integrating your software. His company is a leader in using technology in systems. 

John Kiesel is the president of Division 7 Roofing and is also the President of Imagine Technologies. Imagine Technologies is a newer company that is bringing drone opportunities that turn imagery into virtual reality, which can then turn into 3D models. 

John talks with Heidi about how this technology can be used to bridge the gap between the office side of the industry and what is going on in the field. “For me, the tech of the future is imagery and how you can virtually see what's going on and connect the office to that in real-time and be able to influence the activities of the field from an office environment in real-time,” says John. “That to me is the technology that we need to be looking at, is how to bridge the gap between the white-collar side and blue-collar side of the business.” 

Putting more technology in the hands of roofers is all about recruiting and supporting people within the industry who can work to bring more tech to your business. “That may take a champion, as we like to call it in the industry, that's tech savvy and understands working out in the field to be that liaison person,” says john. “So find the champion, find the techy person that embraces this stuff, and start picking their brain and see how they can help you.” 

Learn more about the Imagine Technologies Group in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directories or visit www.imaginetechnologiesgroup.com. 

Read, Listen or Watch the entire Coffee Conversation to gain more insight on the future of roofing technology.

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter.  

Heidi and RT3 members discuss the cutting edge of roofing technology and how it is moving the industry forward. 

In Season 3, Episode 7 of Coffee Conversations, Heidi J. Ellsworth meets with some of the sharpest minds in the industry as they celebrate Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), a group of thought leaders who have come together to bring technology into roofing. Sponsored by ABC Supply, Anna Anderson, Scott Riopelle and John Kiesel discuss all things technology, industry shortages, and what we will see coming in 2022.  

The conversation kicks off with sharing what roofing contractors should be looking at in 2022, focusing on the cutting edge of technology and trends on the horizon.  

Anna Anderson is the CEO of Art Unlimited and the current president of RT3. She is also on the executive committee of National Women in Roofing. Anna discusses the importance of integrations so the entire workforce can be empowered to do their job with excellence. 

“We need technology as a whole within the industry to embrace that and start collaboratively looking at how do we solve it," says Anna. She also talks about the knowledge gap, virtual reality and robotics “There's a lot of exciting things on the horizon for 2022.” 

John Kiesel is the president of Division 7 Roofing and is also the president of Imagine Technologies. Imagine Technologies is a newer company that is bringing drone opportunities to the roofing industry. He talks with Heidi about how this technology can be used to bridge the gap between the office side of the industry and what is going on in the field. 

“For me, it's imagery and how you can virtually see what's going on and connect the office to that in real-time and be able to influence the activities of the field from an office environment in real-time,” says John. “That to me is the technology that we need to be looking at, is how to bridge the gap between the white-collar side and blue-collar side of the business.” 

Scott Riopelle, who was the 2020 innovator of the year for RT3, talks about the importance of integrating technology and getting your software to talk to each other. His company is a leader in using technology in systems, which has allowed his company to expand nationally and internationally. 

“I think the back of the house technology is so often missed," says Scott. “Not only do we need technology for sales, we need technology to keep the sales and the numbers together. And that's something that really everybody needs to focus on in 2022.” 

Read, Listen or Watch the entire Coffee Conversation to gain more insight on the future of roofing technology and how it can be leveraged to empower the industry.

Activities include a virtual reality experience and a future workforce-focused contractor educational panel.

Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), a group of progressive roofing professionals focused on technology solutions for the roofing industry, announced activities scheduled for the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2022.

Members will meet Monday, January 31 at the Pan American Life Center in New Orleans where they will hear updates on Tesla Solar roofs, on recent technology company acquisitions and then will participate in a hands-on virtual reality experience to understand how the tool can benefit the roofing industry.

RT3 will also host an educational panel on Tuesday, February 1 at 7:45 a.m. The session is titled Casting the Net for Your Future Workforce. In this panel, RT3 contractor members share how they are working with their schools, youth programs and communities to build a pipeline for the future roofing workforce. From multi-organizational apprenticeship programs to working with youth from schools who don’t want to pursue college to getting involved in the community and developing in-house training opportunities, these contractors will share what they are doing, how they got started and tips for success.

The panel is moderated by Heidi J. Ellsworth and participants include RT3 contractor members John Peck of PB Roofing, Charles Antis, Antis Roofing & Waterproofing, Christee Holbrook of Graham Roofing, and Josey Parks, CEO of J Wales Enterprises.

“Building our future workforce has been and will continue to be a challenge for our industry,” stated Karen Edwards, RT3 Director. “Several of our members have implemented initiatives that are working to attract and retain workers and we wanted to share that with the rest of the industry. This is a chance for other contractors to learn how to get started and get ideas as to what might work in their service areas.”

About Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3)

Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) strives to find innovative technology solutions to be used within the roofing industry. RT3 provides insights from progressive thought leaders both inside and outside the roofing industry along with practical resources for implementing potential solutions successfully. The organization will encourage and enable contractors to embrace technology as they seek to grow their businesses. With a commitment to disseminate technology advancement information, RT3 will help build the professionalism and appeal of the roofing industry. Learn more at www.rt3thinktank.com.

By Karen L. Edwards, RCS Editor. 

Sometimes you can’t see everything at the IRE, so we’ve compiled a top 10 list for you to help make the most of your time at the show. 

If you’re headed to the International Roofing Expo in New Orleans February 1 – 3, 2022, there are many cools and exciting events, products, classes and more to attend. It’s just not possible to be in all places at one time so the crew here at RCS wanted to give you a little bit of help with what we think are the can’t-miss opportunities at this year’s show.  

Product innovations 

Watts Removal Products – This is like the magic eraser for roofing contractors. It works on brick, stone, concrete, metal, painted surfaces, plastic and acrylics. It removes graffiti, rust stains, paint overspray, adhesive and more. They even have a unique partnership with Sherwin-Williams that ensures the product won’t void any warranties. Visit them and get a demo in the Sherwin-Williams booth 1831.  

Geocel Phantom™ – Speaking of Sherwin-Williams, you need to see their innovative Geocel Phantom roof sealant while you’re in booth 1831. The product features six translucent, customizable colors that allow any panel color to shine through and blend with the surface for a great look and superior protection – saving you time and money. 

FlashCo – While their prefabricated accessories aren’t new, they have rolled out some new programs that can save you time and frustration. The FlashCo Edge takes the confusion out of getting flashing and accessories. Simply send them your list and they take care of the rest. See them in booth 1845 to learn how they can help you save time and labor! 

PABCO Cascade™ Signature Cut Shingles – An asphalt shingle that complements historical style? PABCO’s unique and distinguished Cascade diamond-shaped shingle is the perfect choice for historical-style homes. The exclusive U.S. patented design has a style that honors a home’s heritage. Stop by booth 2031 to see the beauty of these shingles for yourself.  

Jobba – This powerful roofing technology platform is designed to help commercial roofing contractors and larger community roofers generate new business, build stronger customer relationships, and save valuable time by automating manual processes. They make it easy to grow your service department with their recently released customer portal that streamlines communications between you and your clients. Visit them and get a demo in booth 719. 

TAMKO Edge™ – The TAMKO Edge has raised the bar when it comes to contractor rewards programs. They have opened it to non-certified TAMKO contractors who are now eligible for cash rewards. They have also expanded the rewards for certified contractors. Be sure to visit booth 3129 to learn how to take advantage of this new program enhancement. 

Can’t-miss events 

Coffee Conversations Live – From the RCS Sound Stage on the show floor, you won’t want to miss the conversations happening in booth 249. Hear from leading industry professionals about what’s hot in roofing and what’s coming in 2022. Stop by February 1 and 2 at 1 p.m. CT to join in.  

Roofing Alliance Student Competition – See the future of the roofing industry in action as five teams compete in the oral presentation portion of the competition on Wednesday, February 2 at 8 a.m. The Four Points Sheraton Hotel located on Bourbon Street in New Orleans is the project for this year’s competition. Finalists include teams from California Polytechnic University, Clemson University, Colorado State University, Texas A&M University and the University of Florida.  

First-time attendees reception – Sponsored by your friends at RoofersCoffeeShop, the first-time attendees’ reception is a friendly event to meet people, network and learn how to maximize your attendance at the IRE. Immediately following the event is the much-loved welcome party. Both events are being held at Mardi Gras World and begin at 5:30 p.m. on February 1.  

Future workforce educational panel – Don’t miss this session featuring contractors who are also members of the Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) as they share how they are creating a pipeline for the future workforce of the roofing industry. From multi-organizational apprenticeship programs to working with youth from schools who don’t want to pursue college to getting involved in the community and developing in-house training opportunities, these contractors will share what they are doing, how they got started and tips for success.  

Be part of industry research 

Each year for the past four years, the RoofersCoffeeShop crew has conducted a survey and developed a trends report that shows what is happening in the roofing industry. This year’s survey is sponsored by our friends at Beacon. It’s easy to participate.! We ask about 20 questions that provide insight into materials, labor challenges, hiring practices, technology and more.  

While you’re at IRE, swing by the RCS booth 249 and pick up a card with a QR code link to the survey. The first 100 respondents get a $10 Amazon gift card and EVERYONE who completes the survey receives $50 toward RCS Classified ads.  

Get the full scoop on what’s happening at IRE and access discounted rates at our IRE 2022 countdown page, sponsored by Leister.  

By Evelyn Witterholt, RCS Reporter. 

Join members of the roofing industry, including our very own RCS president, for an exciting couple of days full of speaking sessions! 

This year's International Roofing Expo (IRE) is set to be an exciting couple of days for everyone in the roofing industry that is attending. The expo will take place on February 1-3 in in New Orleans at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Over the course of three jam-packed days, attendees will find that there is no shortage of speaking sessions to attend. Here are some of the most exciting sessions that will take place: 

Casting the Net for Your Future Workforce 

Join RoofersCoffeeShop® President Heidi J. Ellsworth as she moderates this panel on how to work with young people that are interested in roofing. During this session, she will join Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) contractor members as they discuss how they are working with schools and youth programs to help them joining the future roofing workforce. The speakers will be: Graham Roofing Incorporated Owner Christee Holbrook, PB Roofing Co-founder John Peck, Antis Roofing founder Charles Antis and Cognitive Contractor CEO Josey Parks. Information on this session can be found here. 

Tuesday, February 1 

• Coffee is for CLOSERS - Join SRS Distribution Inc.’s Director of Contractor Training John DeRosa for this presentation about provisions restoration contractors should consider.  

• Electrifying News – Steep-slope Contractors Plug Into Integrated Photovoltaic Roof Systems - Learn about the phenomenon of photovoltaic technologies and how roofing contractors are using them. Speakers include: Helene Hardy-Pierce from GAF, John Goodman from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Ken Kelly from Kelly Roofing, Mark Stancroff from CertainTeed and Tommy Rodrigues from Tesla. 

• The Sales Pitch for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: What Contractors Can Do Today to Improve Employee Recruitment and Retention - This session will cover elements of diversity, equity and inclusion as a leadership skill. Executive Director of National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Ellen Thorp and Preferred Accounts Manager of Roofing Systems at Johns Manville Jennifer Stone will be speaking. 

• Keynote Session: Lessons… An insider’s look at 40 years of Learning, Falling, Failing, and Succeeding - Join NRCA CEO The Honorable Reid Ribble for this special keynote session. Here he will share a whole life’s worth of lessons based on his work in the roofing industry and in Congress.  

Wednesday, February 2 

• NRCA Update on Roofing Industry Technical Issues - NRCA’s Vice President of Technical Services Mark Graham will present an overview of roofing-related technical issues. Time is allotted for questions from participants. 

• Evolving in an Everchanging Business Environment: Roundtable Discussion - This forum style discussion will allow participants to discuss how the pandemic has affected productivity and engagement in their company. Speakers include: Brad Sutter from Sutter Roofing, Charles Antis from Antis Roofing & Waterproofing, CJ Martin from Showalter Roofing Service, David Sanders from Beacon Building Products, Jason Stanley from IB Roof Systems, Kyle King from James King Roofing LLC and Paige Harvill from Nations Roof. 

• Job Hazard Analysis: How can they help with your company’s safety? - Join NRCA’s Richard Trewyn as he presents what Job Hazard Analysis is and how it can be used to enhance safety within your company. 

• Understanding Metal Roofing - Director at Metal Roof Advisory Group and CEO and founder of S-5!, Rob Haddock is set to present this course on metal roofing, which is a great introduction for both beginning and experienced building professionals. Part 1 will start at 7:45 a.m. and Part 2 will start at 9:30 a.m. 

• Stop Training Start Coaching - SRS Distribution Inc.’s John DeRosa will speak on the importance of how managers can coach employees as opposed to training them. 

• Resilient Asphalt Shingle Roofs - For this conference, join asphalt roofing experts as they discuss ways asphalt roofs can resist environmental challenges. Speakers include: Aaron Phillips from the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), Brian Davis from GAF, Stephanie Kiriazes from Firestone Building Products and Steve Hern from CertainTeed Roofing. 

• The Economics of Roofing: The Market Ahead - Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Angi Inc., is set to discuss the economics driving the roofing market and what to expect in 2022. 

• Estimating the Right Way - Join John Kenney from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants as he discusses the ins and outs of making estimations. 

• Fundamentals of Insulation Vapor Retarders, Air Barriers and Attic Ventilation - NRCA’s Mark Graham will discuss fundamentals of vapor pressure drive and moisture vapor movement in an accessible way. 

• GEN Z: The Roofing Industry’s Future Has Arrived - This discussion panel will be all about educating roofing professional in how to recruit entry-level, younger employees into the roofing industry. Speakers include: Bob Morgan from Upstate Roofing & Painting, Nick Sabino from Deer Park Roofing Inc., Sherri Miles-Foley from JD Miles & Sons Inc., Tim Stephens and John Esbenshade, Jr. from NRCA. 

• Revolutionary Marketing - From NASCAR, to Football, to the Rackley Army - Anna Anderson from Art Unlimited and Chris Sutton from Rackley Roofing Company Inc. will discuss how to start a marketing revolution within your company. 

• How to Grow your Roofing Business by Cross-Selling Siding & Windows - Erik Zadrozny and Justin Powell from Beacon Building Products will present how to cross-sell siding and windows and grow your company by doing so. 

• Maximizing Efficiency with Polyglass Self-Adhered Roofing Membranes - Betiana Acha and Marco Sieber from Polyglass will present the innovations in self-adhered modified bitumen and how they can promote labor efficiency without sacrificing performance. 

Thursday, February 3 

• Adapting to Material Price Increases and Shortages - Learn about all of the latest issues involving material pricing and delays and strategies for negotiating. Speakers include: Jason Dark from Durolast Roofing, John Kenney from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, Leo Ibarra from Blue’s Roofing, Patrick Cochran from Red Dog Roofing and Trent Cotney from Cotney Construction Law. 

• How to Leverage your Distributor as a Partner for Success in Today’s Environment - Erik Zadrozny and Greg Bloom from Beacon Building Products will outline the easiest and best ways to improve your business by aligning with suppliers. 

• Metal Deck 101 - Metal Deck Replacement - Learn the ins and outs of replacing metal decks with A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply’s Sales Manager Michael Polizzi. 

• Unlocking Service Growth - Live! - Join Ryan Groth of Sales Transformation Group and Greg Hayne of the Hayne Coaching Group for a live version of their “Unlocking Service Growth” podcast. Other speakers include: Jim Bush from Weather Shield Roofing Systems, Jimbo Spann from Spann Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc., Kyrah Coker from National Roofing Partners and Michelle Boykin from Rackley Roofing Company Inc. 

• 2021 I-codes: Roofing-Related Changes - NRCA’s Vice President Mark Graham will be speaking about the roofing related updates to the International Code Council’s model codes. Time will be allotted for audience questions. 

• Blueprint for the Future: Building a Successful and Resilient Company - This panel will discuss major issues the construction industry is facing and possible solutions. Speakers include: Erika Mosse from Pro Remodeler, Nick Sabino from Deer Park Roofing Inc., Rob Balfanz from Vinyl Siding Institute and Shashi Bellamkonda from Leap LLC.  

• Evolving Your Culture and Brand - Charles Antis from Antis Roofing & Waterproofing and The Honorable Reid Ribble from NRCA will discuss how the culture and brand of Antis shifted during the global pandemic 

• Making Your Business Better: Residential Contractors Committee Roundtable - This roundtable discussion will be moderated by John Arellano, senior manager of GAF. Speakers include: Derric Stull from Ridge Valley Exteriors Inc., Gary Howes from The Durable Slate Company and Ken Kelly from Kelly Roofing. 

View the whole schedule of sessions here! 

Learn more about IRE in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.theroofingexpo.com.